A Guide to Power Pumping
So you’ve heard of power pumping breastfeeding- is it right for you? Discover how this technique can help increase your milk supply and learn tips for safely incorporating power pumping into your routine.
What is Power Pumping?
Increasing milk supply is a common concern for many breastfeeding moms. Power pumping is a technique designed to mimic a baby's cluster feedings to boost your milk production. Essentially, it involves frequent, short sessions of pumping to signal your body to produce more milk. When milk remains in your breasts for too long, your production may slow down. By using power pumping, you’re increasing the “demand” for milk, which can help stimulate your body to produce more.
When studied, it was found that pumping for short, but frequent sessions can elevate prolactin levels, which are essential for milk production. This is similar to how a baby’s constant suckling can boost milk supply.
Why Power Pump?
There are several reasons you might want to try power pumping:
Exclusive Pumpers: If you're exclusively pumping, power pumping can help simulate the cluster feedings your baby would normally do at the breast, which might be missing from your routine.
Milk Supply Issues: If you’ve hit a plateau or notice a dip in your milk supply, especially when you’re feeling pump fatigue, power pumping can help (an example of when this may be helpful is when separated from your baby on a trip).
Returning to Work: As you approach your return-to-work date, power pumping can assist in increasing your milk supply to meet the needs of your baby- many moms experience a shift in supply when returning to work.
Health and Lifestyle Changes: Hormonal shifts, increased stress, or being away from your baby for longer periods can impact your milk supply because it decreases prolactin (your milk making hormone). Power pumping might be a temporary solution to address these changes.
Keep in mind that power pumping is often a short-term fix. If you’re concerned about your milk supply, it’s important to consult with an experienced IBCLC and your pediatrician to address any underlying issues.
How to Create a Power Pumping Schedule
To mimic cluster feeding, your power pumping sessions should involve alternating between pumping and resting. Typically, a power pumping session lasts around 1 hour. Given how time intensive power pumping is, we do not recommend doing more than 1 power pump a day since it can create tender breast tissue. Try scheduling it during your baby’s nap time, particularly during the morning can be helpful to increase your milk supply.
1. Pump for 20 minutes.
2. Rest for 10 minutes.
3. Pump for 10 minutes.
4. Rest for 10 minutes.
5. Pump for another 10 minutes.
Repeat this cycle for an hour. The goal is to stimulate let-down, take a break, and then pump again to encourage further let-down, just as your baby would do during a cluster feeding session. Try to massage your breast during the feeding as studies have shown that hands on pumping can help stimulate more milk expression and also helps to reduce clogged ducts.
Common Questions About Power Pumping
Do I need any special supplies?
A good double electric pump (think your Spectra, Medela Pump in Style, Lansinoh Double Electric Pump) is ideal for power pumping since it has a stronger suction. Hands-free pumping bras can also make the process more comfortable and convenient, allowing you to multitask while pumping, however hands free pumps do NOT always empty the breast effectively so be sure to pump with a double electric pump first to check you get the same amount of milk expression.
When is the best time to power pump?
The morning is an ideal time since your prolactin level is highest at this time. Additionally, some moms find that a middle of the night pump yields their best pumping output (it might be worth it to you to get up if you know you are getting a good return!)
How quickly will I see results?
Results can vary. Some moms notice improvements within a few days, while others may take up to three weeks of consistent power pumping to see significant changes.
What if I experience nipple pain during power pumping?
Pumping should NEVER be painful. If you’re experiencing discomfort, adjust the speed and suction level of your pump. Lubricating your pump flanges with breast milk, coconut oil, or lanolin can help reduce friction. Additionally, warming your breasts with a warm compress before pumping can encourage let-down and reduce discomfort.
Set up a Successful Power Pumping Routine
Make sure to eat a balanced diet rich in protein, stay hydrated, and consider incorporating lactogenic snacks to support your milk production.
Our practice provides in person and virtual lactation consultations in San Diego, CA. Book a consultation with one of our International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC’s) and Registered Dietitians here.